2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 — Key Fob Programming

The 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offers a convenient on-board programming procedure that allows you to add a new remote key fob without a trip to the dealer. This guide will walk you through the process, from identifying the correct fob to programming it yourself.

Quick reference

Step-by-step on-board programming

This procedure allows you to add new remotes if you have at least one existing, working key. You can program up to 8 remotes to your truck. The entire process takes only a few minutes.

1. Enter the Vehicle: Get into the driver's seat and close all doors.
2. Insert Existing Key: Insert your original, already-programmed key into the ignition.
3. Turn to ON: Turn the key to the ON position—the position where the radio and dashboard lights come on, but the engine is not running.
4. Enter Relearn Mode: On the Driver Information Center (DIC) screen, navigate using the steering wheel controls until you see "Press ✓ to Relearn Remote Key." Press the checkmark button. The system is now in programming mode, and the DIC will display "Remote Key Learning Active."
5. Program the New Fob: Take the new, unprogrammed key fob. Press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons simultaneously for approximately 15 seconds. You will hear a chime from the vehicle, and the DIC will confirm that a new remote has been learned.
6. Program Additional Fobs: If you have more new fobs to program, immediately repeat Step 5 with the next one. The system will chime for each successfully added remote.
7. Exit Programming Mode: Once you have programmed all your new fobs, turn the ignition to the OFF position and remove the key. This will exit the programming mode.
8. Test: Test the lock, unlock, and remote start functions on all of your newly programmed remotes to ensure they are working correctly.

Battery replacement

If your remote's range is decreasing or it works intermittently, the battery likely needs replacement. This is a simple task.

1. Separate the Fob: Locate the small seam along the side of the key fob. Use a small flat-head screwdriver or a plastic pry tool to gently separate the two halves of the plastic case.
2. Access the Battery: Once open, you will see the green circuit board and the round CR2032 battery.
3. Swap the Battery: Carefully pop the old battery out. Note the orientation of the positive (+) side. Insert the new CR2032 battery, making sure the positive side is facing the same direction (typically up, away from the circuit board).
4. Reassemble: Snap the two halves of the fob case firmly back together until they click into place.

Where to buy a replacement fob

You have several options for purchasing a new key fob, each with different costs and benefits.

• Chevrolet Dealership: This is the most expensive route, often costing between $150 and $300+ for the fob and programming. However, you are guaranteed to get a genuine OEM part that is correct for your vehicle.
• Automotive Locksmith: A professional locksmith is an excellent middle ground. They can typically provide high-quality OEM or aftermarket fobs and cut the key blade for a total cost of $100 to $250. Many locksmiths are mobile and can come to your location.
• Amazon or eBay: The cheapest option for the part itself, with fobs often available for $20 to $60. The risk here is quality and authenticity. You might receive a low-quality fob that fails prematurely or is difficult to program. You will also still need to find a locksmith or use a hardware store's cutting service to have the key blade cut.

If on-board programming isn't supported

While the 2017 Silverado supports DIY programming for the remote functions (lock/unlock/remote start), programming the immobilizer transponder chip requires a different process. The key contains a transponder chip that the truck must recognize to allow the engine to start. If you lose all your keys, you cannot use the on-board procedure.

In a "lost all keys" scenario, an automotive locksmith or the dealer must use a specialized diagnostic scan tool that connects to the vehicle's OBD-II port. This tool communicates with the Body Control Module (BCM) and immobilizer system to authorize a new transponder chip and "teach" it to the vehicle. This process is more complex and expensive, often costing between $200 and $400, as it requires specialized equipment and expertise.

Find a mobile locksmith or shop on Repairius.